Broadcasting Legend Bill Parker Passes Away

Broadcasting legend Bill Parker has passed away at the age of 91, Parker's daughter told WNBF on Thursday.

Known and loved by thousands Bill Parker had a storied broadcasting career at WNBF Radio and WNBF Televison Channel 12 (now WBNG). His career spanned well over six decades. He passed away overnight at the Vestal Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Vestal.

Bill Parker came to this area in 1948 to begin his career at WNBF Radio. Shortly after he was a key personality as WNBF TV began operation. He spent decades hosting his variety program on WNBF Radio. He combined music, interviews and entertainment to earn a large following. On television, thousands of children appeared on his "TV Ranch Club". Others joined him on the "Officer Bill Show" He also became a popular personalty as "The Atlantic Weatherman"

Revered by fellow broadcasters, Parker also became a highly regarded spokesman for area businesses. Upon his full-time retirement from WNBF Radio in 1999, he continued to work on various freelance projects and made numerous personal appearances in the area.

Bill and his wife Ann published a WNBF Cookbook which featured dozens of recipes and a history of WNBF. Together they hosted dozens of trips around the region and world, including their favorite, Hawaii.

Bob Joseph/WNBF News

Known as "The Dean of Broadcasting", Bill was honored at WNBF's 90th Anniversary Gala celebration at the Roberson Museum. He received numerous awards and honors during his career. He was inducted into the Binghamton Broadcaster's Hall of Fame and in 2015 was inducted into the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame in New York City.